If you are looking into private school for your child, be sure and schedule a time to observe a class at each program you seriously consider. This process is important for a number of reasons. There is so much more that you can learn from a class observation as compared to simply reading about what a program offers. Keep reading for three of the most important reasons you should observe a class before choosing a private school.

See how the program implements the educational philosophy it espouses

Each private school you consider for your child will have an educational philosophy upon which the program is built. This philosophy will outline what the school believes about education and learning. It is important to find a private school that aligns with your own beliefs about education. What a private school states about their educational philosophy – and the way that philosophy is implemented in the classroom – may not be the same. It is important to observe a class in person in order to ensure that the educational philosophy is implemented appropriately in the classroom.

Get a feel for the overall environment in the classroom

Another important reason to observe a class before choosing a private school is that you can get a feel for the overall environment in the classroom. There is a lot you can learn from being in an environment and observing what happens. Class observation allows you to see how the teacher and students interact. You will also get a chance to see how the classroom is set up and how students utilize it. Being in the classroom and watching how it is run will help you determine if it is a good fit for your child. This is the environment your child will be in every day so it is worth your time to check it out for yourself.

Ask questions of the teachers and administration

A class observation and campus tour will also give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the private school. You will get a chance to ask questions of the teachers and administration. It is likely that you will have a list of questions for each private school you consider. The time you are on campus for the class observation will provide you with time to talk to the administration and address any questions or concerns.

Observing a class can give you insight into a private school program that you simply will not get from reading a description online. The three reasons to observe a class that are outlined above will make the decision-making process easier for you and your family. If Montessori school is an option on your list, schedule a time to observe a class at one of the Bay Area campuses of Fountainhead Montessori School.